SEOUL – Sept 9, 2013: An all-new version of the Kia Soul makes its
European debut today at the 65th Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA)
in Frankfurt. It is joined by a dramatic new urban B-segment concept
vehicle, the Kia Niro, which makes its world premiere, as well as the new
bi-fuel Kia Picanto LPG and upgraded Kia Optima.

The all-new Kia Soul stays true to the original iconic design, with
modern design cues matched by improved dynamics and a range of economical
engines. The smooth new-look exterior is inspired by the 2012 Kia
Track’ster concept and introduces a thoroughly fresh, more grown-up
appearance without losing its individualistic edge.

The biggest technical change for the new 2014 Soul is the adoption of an
all-new platform, based on that of the latest Kia cee’d. The result
is greatly improved ride and handling compared with the outgoing model, as
well as more mature and composed on-road behaviour. The second-generation
Soul will also be the best in its class for refinement, a result of the
car’s upgraded suspension, 29% stiffer bodyshell and comprehensive
soundproofing. Interior noise levels are reduced by approximately three
decibels.

Subtly larger dimensions also mean the new model offers buyers a more
practical proposition, with a longer wheelbase and wider track contributing
to greater cabin space and cargo capacity. Leg, head and shoulder room are
increased for all passengers, while the cargo area is increased by 4% to
354 litres (plus additional underfloor storage) with the rear seats
upright.

Environmental performance for the new model is also improved. Buyers
will be able to choose between the latest versions of Kia’s 1.6-litre
GDI gasoline and CRDi diesel engines, as well as six-speed manual and
automatic transmissions. Both engines are carried over from the outgoing
model, and feature improved efficiency with lower emissions.

The all-new Kia Soul will go on sale across Europe in 2014, when the
full model line-up, choice of gasoline and diesel powertrains, performance,
economy, equipment specifications and prices will be confirmed.

Kia will also be showing the new Kia Niro, a dramatic new European
concept car, which hints at a possible future B-segment contender ready to
take on the urban environment with style and tenacity.

The Kia Niro previews an innovative new powertrain, featuring
Kia’s turbocharged 1.6-litre ‘Gamma’ engine, developing
160 ps through a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. While the engine
drives the front wheels, an electric-hybrid system powered from
regenerative braking delivers up to 33kW (45 ps) to the rear wheels –
when road conditions require extra grip.

Niro is born out of Kia’s determination to seek new compact car
options for urban drivers, and has been created with European tastes and
expectations very much in mind. The car was designed at Kia’s
Frankfurt design studio – less than a kilometre away from the IAA
– under the direction of Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer
Europe.

The new bi-fuel Picanto LPG, developed in response to growing customer
demand for small cars with low running costs, is also introduced at the IAA
show. The new model is powered by a special version of Kia’s
three-cylinder 1.0-litre Kappa engine, producing 49kW (67ps) and 90 Nm of
torque. The new Picanto LPG promises even lower running costs than
conventional gasoline-only Picanto models.

The new Picanto LPG is fitted with two fuel tanks – the regular
35-litre gasoline tank in the usual position ahead of the rear axle and a
27-litre pressurized LPG tank located beneath the trunk floor in the space
previously occupied by the spare wheel. Drivers can switch between gasoline
to LPG simply by pressing a button on the dashboard.

The LPG tank and the system’s equipment adds 51 kg to the
Picanto’s weight, so in order to maintain brisk acceleration (0-100
kph in 14.5 seconds) the final drive ratio is lowered by 8.6% (from 4.235:1
to 4.600:1). The Picanto’s top speed – 150 kph – is
unchanged from the standard 1.0-litre gasoline model.

While its powertrain has been modified, the new Picanto LPG retains all
the key assets which have made the smallest Kia so popular throughout
Europe, recording annual sales in excess of 50,000 units.

Initially, the European bi-fuel Picanto model will be available in
Germany, Italy, Poland, Czech Republic, Greece, Portugal and the
Netherlands – where it expected to account for up to 7% of Picanto
sales. When it goes on sale later this year, the left-hand drive Picanto
LPG will be the first, and only, LPG-powered car in the marketplace with a
7-Year, 150,000 km warranty.

Responding to customer feedback and developments in the ever-competitive
European D-segment, the Frankfurt show also sees the introduction of an
upgraded Kia Optima, with an enhanced design, new infotainment, convenience
and safety features, increased refinement, improved quality and a more
premium finish.

As well as a visual refresh of the popular sedan model, Kia has also
focused on introducing greater refinement to the Optima, one of the key
areas for improvement targeted by engineers. Measures adopted to reduce
road noise in the new model include fitting a dynamic damper to the rear
suspension cross member, improving the vehicle’s sound-proofing and
fitting stronger alloy wheels. Combined, these measures have reduced road
noise by 3.3 dB

A number of changes designed to enhance engine efficiency have also been
adopted, including an overrunning alternator decoupler and an innovative
battery management system. As a result, CO2 emissions start from 133 g/km
for the 1.7-litre diesel model, and reducing to 128 g/km when fitted with
Kia’s optional fuel-saving stop/start ISG system. The Optima is among
the lower vehicle tax bands in many European countries.

The already generous equipment level of the original 2011 model is
boosted with additional standard and optional premium features for the
upgraded Optima, including Drive-Mode-Select (with three driving modes
– Normal, Active ECO and Sport) and improved audio and navigation
systems with an optional 8-inch screen. The upgraded Optima also features
optional new safety equipment, such as Kia’s Blind Spot Detection
system, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.